The Golden State Warriors started the Western Conference Semifinals with a 99-88 win against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night. However, what should have been a victorious night turned into a moment of concern. Star guard Steph Curry left the game early with a hamstring injury, leaving fans and teammates worried.
Curry played only 13 minutes, scoring 13 points and making three three-pointers. But just before halftime, he grabbed the back of his left leg and limped off the court. Soon after, the team confirmed he had a strained left hamstring and would not return.
This is exactly why the Warriors brought in Jimmy Butler earlier this season.
Why the Warriors Got Jimmy Butler
The Warriors traded for Butler to provide a strong backup in case something happened to Curry. The goal was to pair him with Curry, but Butler’s real role was to be insurance. When Curry was sidelined, the team needed someone who could step up and lead.
Coach Steve Kerr emphasized Butler’s importance after the game. He explained that Butler helped settle the game down in the final minutes. The Warriors focused on ball control and allowed Butler to handle the pressure. Kerr added that Butler’s ability to control the tempo of the game was key to their success.
Butler’s leadership and calm under pressure were clear. He did not panic when things got tough, and his experience was crucial in this game.
A Quiet Leader Who Does It All
While Buddy Hield led the Warriors in scoring with 24 points, it was Butler who made the biggest impact on the court. He finished with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists in 41 minutes of play.
Butler was especially impressive on the boards. In the first half, he grabbed five offensive rebounds, finishing the game with seven. His efforts on the glass helped the Warriors maintain possession and protect their lead.
Butler also tied Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert in rebounds despite being six inches shorter. His strong timing and effort allowed him to play bigger than his size.
Coach Kerr praised Butler’s anticipation on the court, noting that great players can sense what’s coming. Butler’s ability to read the game on both ends of the floor separated him from other players.
Butler Ready to Lead with Curry Out
Curry is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Wednesday, and Coach Kerr does not expect him to play in Game 2 on Thursday. This means Butler will have to take on more responsibility, especially in terms of scoring.
Butler acknowledged the challenge but remained confident. He said he would continue to play the right way and help his teammates. He may not be a high-volume shooter like Curry, but he is always ready to step up when needed.
In the three games he played without Curry earlier this season, Butler averaged 19.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 6.7 assists. He is used to carrying the load when necessary and will be ready for the challenge if Curry is out for an extended period.
Why Jimmy Butler Matters
Butler’s role on the Warriors goes beyond his scoring ability. While he may not score as much as Curry, his leadership, effort, and basketball IQ are invaluable to the team. He has a unique ability to stay calm under pressure and guide his teammates through difficult moments.
His teammates trust him to take control when things get tense. Butler’s presence allows the Warriors to continue playing their game without losing composure, even in the absence of their star player.
That is why the Warriors traded for him. Not only to play alongside Curry but also to be a reliable option when the team needs someone to step up.
Now, with Curry’s injury, Butler is exactly the player the Warriors need. He has the experience, the skills, and the leadership to help carry the team through difficult times.
With the series still young and Curry’s future uncertain, Butler will be crucial in the Warriors’ pursuit of another championship. Whether Curry returns quickly or not, Butler will be there to help lead the team forward.
